What Is “Pure-O” OCD and How Is It Different?
While OCD often brings to mind people repeatedly checking locks or washing their hands, there is another form of OCD called “Pure-O” OCD.
“Pure O” OCD a form of OCD that’s based almost entirely on internal thought processes, making it equally (if not more) draining.
What “Pure-O” OCD Actually Means
While the term “Pure-O” is often used to describe the condition, the name is not entirely fitting.
While the condition is often considered to be “purely obsessional,” there are still compulsions (the 'C' in OCD) that are present, just of a different nature.
There are no outward compulsions associated with “Pure O” OCD; rather, the person is acting on these thoughts internally.
When affected with “Pure-O” OCD, a person experiences unwanted, intrusive, and distressing thoughts that tend to cycle or spiral.
The thought content is sometimes violent in nature. Individuals with “Pure O” OCD may fear doing something violent or irrational to a loved one, or they may have religiously intrusive thoughts that conflict with or contradict their belief system.
The thoughts feel as if they need to be responded to or acted on. No matter how hard an individual tries to push the thoughts out of their mind, they remain present.
The Unseen Patterns
Things get difficult now. You aren't washing your hands or checking the door locks, yet you are still doing something. You could be doing one of the following:
● Re-examining the thought over and over just to double-check that you didn't “mean it”
● Attempting to replace a negative thought with a positive one
● Arguing with yourself about whether you are a good person
● Looking for proof that you would never act on the thought to ease your doubt
These mental reflexes are similar to rituals. They provide a short-lived sense of comfort before the anxiety returns and the cycle repeats.
The Differences between “Pure O” OCD and Traditional OCD
Traditional OCD has external behaviors. One could repeatedly turn a light switch on and off or arrange items in a straight line. You can easily observe the rituals.
“Pure-O” OCD, on the other hand, has a calm appearance on the outside.
You could be silently sitting and letting your mind run through the same thought for the hundredth time in one day.
Other people around you are most likely oblivious to what is happening in your mind.
The two types observe the same cycle: obsession, anxiety, compulsion, and short-lived relief. However, with “Pure-O” OCD, the cycle is internal.
Why It's Hard to Talk About
It is common for individuals with “Pure-O” OCD to experience upsetting thought patterns.
This includes:
● Possible violent thoughts
● Possible sexual thoughts
● Possible thoughts that are contrary to one’s belief system
This is disturbing to those who have “Pure-O” OCD, since these particular thought processes do not conform to their values.
These thoughts are unintentional and intrusive.
Nevertheless, the internalized shame that may surround these undesirable and intrusive thoughts tends to act as a barrier. It prevents people from seeking the assistance that they need.
What Actually Helps
Treatment for “Pure-O” OCD typically involves a specific type of therapy called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
In some instances, the use of medication is beneficial.
It is common for intrusive thoughts to diminish in severity and level of frequency with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This often results in individuals having a much easier time addressing their behavioral patterns.
Related - How to Stop OCD Thoughts Naturally
Moving Forward
When thoughts get this way, the best thing you can do is partner with a qualified mental health professional.
Serenity Health helps clients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Understanding that mental health is a journey is incredibly important, so we try to offer as much flexibility as we can.
This implies that clients are able to participate in care via our telehealth services.
We look forward to you reaching out to us.
FAQs
Does “Pure-O” OCD imply that there are no compulsions?
Not really. There are the mental compulsions, such as ruminating, reassurance seeking, or thought cancellations.
I do not know whether it is “Pure-O” OCD or just ordinary worrying?
“Pure-O” OCD consists of unrelenting and intrusive thoughts that form mental rituals and leave the affected individual in a state of distress.
This can affect the day-to-day functioning of the individual. When it reaches this point, you need some mental health assistance.
Can “Pure-O” OCD improve without treatment?
The positive aspect is that improvement is possible for most individuals with proper treatment.
What should I do first if I suspect I have “Pure-O” OCD?
This would be to consult with a therapist, psychiatrist, or board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. You may be asked to discuss and describe your thoughts. This may feel uncomfortable for you, but it the beginning of your healing journey.
